The Duke of York: Belfast’s Historic Pub and Cultural Icon
Historic Belfast pub blending 200 years of heritage with lively craic, rich whiskey traditions, and vibrant local art in the heart of Commercial Court.
Nestled in the lively Commercial Court of Belfast, The Duke of York is a historic pub with over 200 years of heritage. Known for its rich memorabilia celebrating Belfast’s distilling past, vibrant murals, and traditional atmosphere, it offers a warm welcome with authentic Irish craic, music, and a wide selection of drinks. Rebuilt after a 1972 bombing, this pub remains a beloved cultural hotspot in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
A brief summary to Duke of York
- 7-11 Commercial Ct, Belfast, BT1 2NB, GB
- +442890241062
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11:30 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12:30 am-1 am
- Wednesday 12:30 am-1 am
- Thursday 12:30 am-1 am
- Friday 12:30 am-1 am
- Saturday 12:30 am-1 am
- Sunday 12:30 am-1 am
Local tips
- Visit during early evening on weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere and better seating availability.
- Take time to explore the extensive collection of Belfast memorabilia and murals inside and in the courtyard.
- Try a traditional Irish whiskey or a creamy stout to experience authentic local flavors.
- Check the schedule for live traditional music sessions to enjoy local culture at its best.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Duke of York location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Duke of York
A Storied Past and Resilience
The Duke of York has stood as a Belfast institution for more than two centuries. Originally a traditional pub, it was tragically destroyed in 1972 when a bomb intended for Belfast’s High Court exploded prematurely nearby. Though not the intended target, the blast flattened the building, necessitating a complete rebuild. Since then, it has been lovingly restored and preserved, maintaining its authentic charm and historical significance. The pub’s survival and revival symbolize the resilience of Belfast itself through decades of conflict and change.Atmosphere and Interior Character
Step inside The Duke of York and you are immediately immersed in an atmosphere rich with history and local culture. The interior features dark wood furnishings, a solid wood serving bar, and walls adorned with vintage advertising enamels, antique mirrors, and a vast collection of original Belfast memorabilia. This bric-a-brac, carefully collected over 30 years by owner Willie Jack, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s distilling heritage and social past. The pub’s ambiance is lively yet welcoming, filled with the traditional craic, music, and humor that define Belfast’s pub culture.Location and Surroundings
Situated along the narrow cobbled alleyway of Commercial Court in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, The Duke of York is part of one of the city’s most vibrant nightlife hubs. The area is known for its colorful umbrellas strung above the street, lively bars, and artistic murals. The pub’s outdoor smoking area and courtyard are festooned with murals and local artwork, creating a visually captivating setting. This location, once known as the Half Bap, has evolved into a cultural hotspot, largely thanks to the efforts of local entrepreneurs and artists.Willie Jack’s Vision and Legacy
Willie Jack, the pub’s owner since the early 1980s, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Cathedral Quarter. Beyond The Duke of York, he owns several other iconic venues in the area and has commissioned local artists to decorate the courtyards and lanes with murals, transforming the neighborhood into Belfast’s most Instagrammed and culturally rich district. His dedication to preserving Belfast’s heritage while fostering a vibrant nightlife has made The Duke of York a cornerstone of the city’s social fabric.Experience and Offerings
The Duke of York is renowned for its extensive selection of Irish whiskeys and creamy stouts, perfect for sampling the authentic tastes of Belfast. Regular traditional music sessions enhance the welcoming atmosphere, inviting visitors to enjoy genuine Irish hospitality. The pub’s motto, “Come in Soberly, Drink Moderately, Depart Quietly and Call Again,” reflects its friendly and respectful environment. Whether relaxing indoors amid historic decor or enjoying the lively outdoor courtyard, visitors experience a deep connection to Belfast’s past and present.Accessibility and Visitor Information
Open daily with extended hours on weekends, The Duke of York welcomes a diverse crowd, including locals, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts. The pub is wheelchair accessible and located in a pedestrian-friendly area with nearby public transport options. Its central location in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter makes it an ideal stop for those exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant nightlife scene.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
2-6 Waring St
0.1 km
Victorian banking masterpiece transformed into luxury hospitality on Belfast's historic mercantile street.
Albert Memorial Clock
0.2 km
Belfast’s iconic leaning Victorian clock tower, blending Gothic grandeur with rich industrial heritage and local character.
Numbers' Wall
0.2 km
A burst of colorful numbers and symbols celebrating Belfast's vibrant contemporary street art scene.
Castle Buildings
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty and modern comforts of the Castle Buildings in Belfast, a perfect stay for any traveler.
Beacon of Hope
0.5 km
A soaring symbol of peace and gratitude rising 19.5 meters above Belfast's heart.
Treasure Trails
0.5 km
Explore Belfast like never before with Treasure Trails, an interactive treasure hunt that uncovers the city's hidden gems and rich history.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge
0.5 km
A 1960s road bridge over the River Lagan, connecting central Belfast with the Titanic Quarter and offering quiet riverside views from its pedestrian walkways.
The Back Of Boots
0.5 km
Discover the serene ambiance of The Back Of Boots in Belfast, a pilgrimage site steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Belfast Free Walking Tour
0.5 km
Discover the heart of Belfast with a free walking tour that unveils the city's history, culture, and hidden gems through the eyes of local guides.
Giant's Causeway Experiences
0.5 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich mythology of Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northern Ireland, through guided tours and immersive experiences.
If Buildings Could Talk - Belfast Walking Tour
0.5 km
Belfast’s grand civic heart, where Edwardian architecture meets city history in Donegall Square’s green heart.
DC Tours - Belfast Walking Tours
0.5 km
Explore Belfast's rich history and vibrant culture with DC Tours, your premier walking tour agency for unforgettable sightseeing experiences.
Donegall Square N & Donegall Square W
0.6 km
Belfast's grand civic square, where Victorian architecture frames the city's industrial heritage and maritime history.
Mary Ann McCracken statue
0.6 km
Bronze monument to an abolitionist, feminist pioneer, and social reformer who stood for justice across three centuries.
Belfast City Hall Tours
0.6 km
Baroque Revival masterpiece and civic heart of Belfast, where industrial heritage meets contemporary culture.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cathedral Quarter Belfast
0.0 km
Belfast's creative heartland where Victorian grandeur meets contemporary street art and vibrant cultural expression.
Harp Bar
0.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Harp Bar, Belfast's favorite pub for craft beers, live music, and authentic Irish hospitality.
Commercial Court
0.0 km
Discover Belfast’s historic Commercial Court, a vibrant cobbled alley alive with colourful murals, lively pubs, and rich mercantile heritage.
Trade union mural
0.1 km
A vibrant mural in Belfast celebrating the city’s proud labor history and the enduring spirit of trade union solidarity.
Creative Tours Belfast
0.1 km
Explore Belfast’s vibrant music scene on foot with expert guides, historic venues, and live performances in the UNESCO City of Music.
The Dirty Onion and Yardbird
0.1 km
Historic Belfast pub with lively Irish music downstairs and Yardbird’s famed rotisserie chicken upstairs in a rustic, vibrant setting.
Northern Ireland War Memorial Museum
0.1 km
Explore Northern Ireland’s WWII history through immersive exhibits, family activities, and heartfelt remembrance in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Cloth Ear
0.1 km
A cosy, unpretentious hotel pub inside The Merchant Hotel, offering classic pub dishes, local beers and a snug atmosphere in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
The Spire Of Hope, Belfast
0.1 km
A soaring 40-metre steel beacon of hope atop Belfast’s historic St Anne’s Cathedral, shining brightly across the city skyline.
Belfast Cathedral, the Cathedral Church of St Anne
0.1 km
Discover Belfast Cathedral’s Romanesque beauty, historic mosaics, and the soaring Spire of Hope in the heart of the city’s vibrant Cathedral Quarter.
Cathedral Quarter Moural
0.1 km
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter blends historic charm with vibrant street art, world-class culture, and lively nightlife in a uniquely creative urban district.
The Spirit Circle: Sensorium & Belfast by the Glass
0.2 km
Interactive sensory cocktail experience in Belfast's heart, where taste meets discovery and every drink tells a story.
High St
0.2 km
High Street Belfast: Where historic charm meets vibrant shopping and lively city culture in the heart of Belfast.
The MAC
0.2 km
Belfast's vibrant contemporary arts centre blending theatre, galleries, and café culture in a welcoming modern space.
Whites Tavern
0.2 km
Discover the essence of Irish culture at Whites Tavern in Belfast, where history, music, and delectable cuisine come together in a lively pub atmosphere.
Essential places to dine
The Muddlers Club Restaurant
0.0 km
Michelin-starred modern European dining in Belfast’s historic Cathedral Quarter, blending local flavors with a stylish industrial atmosphere.
Waterman Restaurant
0.0 km
Discover Waterman Restaurant, Belfast’s Michelin-recognized spot for seasonal European cuisine in a stylish, relaxed setting with local charm.
The Thirsty Goat Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast's vibrant culinary scene at The Thirsty Goat, where delicious grilled dishes meet an extensive beverage selection.
Mumbai 27
0.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter at Mumbai 27.
Six By Nico Belfast
0.1 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant Six By Nico, where inventive six-course tasting menus transform culinary themes into unforgettable dining adventures.
The Northern Whig
0.1 km
Experience the best of Belfast dining at The Northern Whig, where traditional flavors meet modern culinary art in an inviting atmosphere.
The Great Room Restaurant, Belfast
0.1 km
Experience Belfast’s finest Victorian dining beneath Ireland’s largest chandelier with exquisite local cuisine and impeccable service.
Dumpling Library
0.2 km
Experience a vibrant Pan-Asian feast in Belfast’s unique Dumpling Library, where exquisite dumplings meet creative cocktails in intimate dining pods.
Buba
0.2 km
Bold Eastern Mediterranean small plates, flame-grilled meats and creative cocktails in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Coppi Restaurant
0.2 km
Modern Venetian-inspired Italian dining in Belfast’s Saint Anne's Square with vibrant cicchetti, fresh ingredients, and a lively atmosphere.
Academy Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience the best of Modern European cuisine at Academy Restaurant in Belfast, where local ingredients meet innovative culinary artistry.
Taylor & Clay
0.3 km
Award-winning Belfast steakhouse with a bespoke wood-fired Asador grill, serving premium local meats and seasonal dishes in a vibrant city-centre setting.
Bootleggers
0.3 km
Step into Belfast’s Bootleggers for bold American flavors, original cocktails, and a lively speakeasy vibe inspired by 1920s Prohibition.
Roam
0.4 km
Discover Roam, Belfast’s intimate Irish restaurant blending classic flavors with modern flair in a stylish, welcoming setting.
City Picnic
0.4 km
Savor award-winning burgers and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at City Picnic.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Art Loves at The Merchant
0.1 km
Discover a curated emporium of art-led gifts and homewares within Belfast’s iconic Merchant Hotel, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship.
Forsight Belfast
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion while supporting vital services for the visually impaired at ForSight Belfast’s charity shop.
Petty Kingdom Vintage Clothing & Records
0.2 km
Discover curated vintage fashion and classic records in the heart of Belfast’s city centre at Petty Kingdom.
Young Savage - Vintage Clothing, Records and Books
0.3 km
Discover Belfast’s vibrant vintage gem offering unique clothing, rare records, and curated books in a welcoming, multi-floor cultural haven.
Fuzz Vintage
0.3 km
Unearth timeless retro treasures at Fuzz Vintage, where Belfast's Rosemary Street hides eclectic clothing from decades past in a shopper's paradise of sustainable style.
Carrolls Irish Gifts - Belfast
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish treasures at Carrolls Irish Gifts in Belfast's bustling Castle Place—a shopper's haven for Claddagh rings, Aran knits, Guinness gear, and gourmet hampers evoking the Emerald Isle's timeless charm.
Søstrene Grene
0.3 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creativity at Søstrene Grene Belfast, your cozy craft and home decor destination in the city center.
Urban Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Urban Outfitters Belfast on Ann Street — where cutting-edge fashion meets creative lifestyle in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital.
Born and Bred
0.3 km
Explore Born and Bred in Belfast for unique Irish gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of Northern Ireland.
Top Gift
0.3 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local treasures at Top Gift, Belfast's charming gift shop offering an eclectic selection for every traveler.
White Stuff Belfast
0.3 km
Discover stylish, sustainable fashion for all ages at White Stuff Belfast, where quality meets conscious design in the city centre.
FatFace
0.4 km
Alpine-inspired casual wear and outdoor lifestyle fashion in Belfast's premier shopping destination.
The Name Shops - Belfast
0.4 km
Personalised baby gifts and children's clothing with on-demand embroidery in Belfast's premier shopping centre.
Build-A-Bear Workshop
0.4 km
Create your own stuffed friend in an interactive workshop experience at Belfast's Victoria Square.
Tommy Hilfiger
0.4 km
Discover classic American style with a modern twist at Tommy Hilfiger, nestled in Belfast’s vibrant Victoria Square shopping centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dark Horse
0.0 km
Quirky Cathedral Quarter pub with historic artifacts, poetic courtyard, Game of Thrones door, and superb drinks amid Belfast's cobbled charm.
The Black Box
0.0 km
Belfast's intimate arts hub: live music, comedy, theatre, and casual bar vibes in a historic townhouse setting.
39 Gordon Street
0.1 km
Vibrant Cathedral Quarter cocktail bar pulsing with live music, craft drinks, and tasty tacos in Belfast's historic heart.
The Spaniard
0.1 km
A cozy, quirky pub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, famed for its lively music, extensive rum selection, and intimate atmosphere.
Bert's Jazz Bar
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Bert's Jazz Bar in Belfast, where live music, exceptional cocktails, and delectable cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
The National
0.2 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern Belfast buzz in this multi-bar haven for all-day eats, drinks, and live tunes on lively High Street.
Ulster Sports Club
0.2 km
Experience the lively atmosphere of Ulster Sports Club, Belfast's top sports bar, offering delicious food, live music, and an electric ambiance.
Monico Bars
0.2 km
Classic Belfast pub on Lombard Street pouring pints, serving stews, and screening sports in a lively city-center haven.
Henry's
0.3 km
A lively Belfast pub and restaurant blending historic charm with modern dining, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
The Jailhouse
0.3 km
Historic Belfast pub blending vintage charm with lively cocktails and hearty fare in a character-filled setting at Joy’s Entry.
The Reporter. Bar
0.4 km
A cozy, quirky, dog-friendly bar in Belfast with great bottled beers, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Sunflower Public House
0.4 km
Belfast's authentic corner pub with Troubles-era charm, live music nightly, wood-fired pizzas, and a buzzing garden—where history meets hearty ales and eclectic vibes.
The Tipsy Bird
0.4 km
Experience Belfast's vibrant nightlife at The Tipsy Bird, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere, perfect for every traveler seeking fun.
Bittles Bar
0.4 km
Discover Belfast’s iconic flatiron-shaped pub, Bittles Bar, where rich Irish culture, history, and a curated whiskey selection blend in a cozy, historic setting.
Revolución de Cuba Belfast
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with Cuban cocktails, tapas, live salsa, and a stunning Art Nouveau setting in the heart of Belfast.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Craics Ninety
0.1 km
A compact, high‑energy clubnight in Belfast’s Common Market that celebrates 1990s music with DJs, themed entertainment and a pulsing dance atmosphere.
Club Lux
0.1 km
Dive into Belfast's vibrant nightlife at Club Lux, the ultimate disco club and bar experience with electrifying music and great company.
Ollie's Belfast
0.1 km
A compact, late-night nightclub beneath The Merchant Hotel — brick-vaulted interiors, VIP booths and a focused dancefloor for weekend clubbing.
Kremlin
0.3 km
Belfast's beating heart of gay nightlife: dance floors ablaze, cocktails flowing, and community vibes till dawn on Donegall Street.
Shoe Factory
0.4 km
Experience the lively and inclusive nightlife at Shoe Factory, Belfast's top gay nightclub, where music, dance, and celebration come together.
Boombox Belfast
0.4 km
A lively and inclusive gay nightclub in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, renowned for drag shows, DJ nights, and a welcoming queer atmosphere.
Anthology Ni
0.4 km
A high-energy Belfast nightclub within the Kremlin complex, known for DJ nights, themed performances and lively late‑hour clubbing.
The Art Department
0.4 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at The Art Department, Belfast's ultimate dance club with an artistic twist.
Voodoo
0.4 km
Experience the electric atmosphere of Voodoo, Belfast's top night club, featuring live music, great drinks, and an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Cabaret Supper Club
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Cabaret Supper Club, where exquisite dining meets captivating performances for an unforgettable experience.
Thompsons Garage
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Belfast at Thompsons Garage, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await every night.
Alibi
1.5 km
Energetic R&B nightclub with guest DJs, cocktails, and a lively terrace in Belfast’s vibrant Queen’s Quarter.
Scratch Nightclub
1.6 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Scratch Nightclub, where diverse music and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable late-night memories.
Club Honey
2.4 km
Experience Belfast’s vibrant nightlife at Club Honey, where energetic music and lively crowds create unforgettable nights on Falls Road.
Saturday Night Nightclub
14.1 km
Experience the vibrant pulse of Newtownards nightlife at Saturday Night Nightclub, where music, dancing, and social energy come alive.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Fun-filled
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
